I Am A Work In Progress

A few weeks ago, a long time friend made a comment along the lines that they were impressed that I was always reinventing myself.

Really? Hmm.... I'd never thought of my life in that way.

When I think of reinventing - I tend to think of a physical product being reformulated, repackaged or renamed. Something being marketed in a new way.

In human terms, I think of a complete makeover in appearance to better reflect the person inside. Or perhaps to reflect ones personality or maybe a career change. Such as someone taking on a new persona to achieve success in another genre or walk of life. And sadly. in some cases, to avoid or escape from their own reality.

Personally, I think of myself as a continuous work in progress.

I don't like being pushed or forced into change. Whenever possible, I prefer to make a gradual adjustment. Somehow it feels more natural and not nearly as stressful or disruptive that way.

Unfortunately, we don't always get a say in when or how the changes in our lives happen. Circumstances can force us into change in a heartbeat. Those tend to be the hardest and most challenging changes we make.

Looking back, I think the hardest thing I ever had to adjust to, was losing so much of my eyesight in 1990. It forced me to relearn many skills using more of my other senses to get me through daily life situations safely.

Learning to use a computer was a challenge that I delayed for many years. I knew it could potentially improve parts of my life, but I just wasn't ready to commit the time to learn about it or the money to buy one. When a friend of a friend offered me a free used computer, I realized it was an opportunity to expand my horizon and embrace the ever growing world of technology. There are days, I barely touch the computer (or the tablet) but learning to use this particular new fangled technology is one I will never regret! It has opened new worlds and possibilities to me that I had never dared to dream!

Truth be told, I tend to overanalyze or research the heck out of something before I even go near something new! Not just the big purchases or changes! I even research and compare small items and products before I try them! I'm not cheap, but my income is limited so I want the best value for the money I do spend.

It's not that I am set in my ways. Well, not completely anyways. I adapt as needed. Sometimes it is a bit more grudgingly as some things are harder to change than others.

I am not one to jump on bandwagons or fads without considering the pros and cons. I tend to wait a bit and see the reaction of the masses before I take a dip into the latest in trends. I like to learn about the newer options and make a careful decision as to whether whatever this new thing is would be a good fit for me or if I want to adapt to it.

Under certain circumstances, I will try new things. However, I have to ask questions first. Such as: Does the product contain anything I may be allergic to? Will this improve the quality of my life? Can I afford this change - and the upkeep that may go with it?

I moved numerous times in my young adult years - some were financially motivated and some were pure circumstance. I always researched the area before I chose a new place. Some moves worked out better than others but each offered new experiences and the chance to meet new people.

There are also parts of my life that I am quite comfortable with and have seen no real need to make major changes.

For instance, I've never walked into a salon and given carte blanche to the first stylist I see. My hair styles changed a few times in my younger years, but I now love having a short "wash it, comb it and ignore it" style!

I've never done a total 180 on fashion. My fashion sense has changed little. I still prefer comfortable classic pieces that don't really go out of style. The basic designs and solid colours that can be mixed and matched as needed - then dressed up or down with jewellery or other accessories.

For the most part, the changes I've made are more in lifestyle and on the inside.

Changes in eating habits (healthier), daily stretches and workouts were key to getting in better shape, My physical health is still not great but it is far better than it was 15 years ago! My mind and heart have been opened to new ideas, opinions and beliefs. The friends and relationships that are part of my life now are stronger and more mutually supportive than those from my younger years.

There are more areas of my life that will inevitably evolve. Some areas, I know could use an overhaul of sorts - and I'm working up to making those adjustments. I'm just not ready to act on them yet!

As we grow from childhood to youth then adulthood and into our later years, it is inevitable that our lives evolve. We learn to adapt to new circumstances, surroundings, technologies and people. If we don't, then our lives become stagnant and one dimensional.

Failing to adapt and evolve, also means missing out on new experiences and so much of what life has to offer. We don't necessarily have to "like" or "love" all the new things but we have to at least acknowledge that there is more to life than our own little world.

The strength and resilience of the human spirit that allows us to evolve and adapt never ceases to amaze me.

Life is full of opportunities as we adapt and evolve!

To survive and thrive in this world, we must each continue to be a work in progress!

dn